Course summary
Our MSc in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management (QSCM) is designed to meet the challenging demands of the modern learner and the rapidly evolving needs of the construction industry. This is a coursework only course which brings together both distance and on-campus learners. You will work on real life problems as experienced by the construction industry. And in doing so, develop a broad range of quantity surveying and management skills and knowledge including:
- Building Information Modelling (BIM)
- project finance
- technology
- procurement by working.
- Mace
- Willmott Dixon
- BAM Construction
- Beards
- Kingerlee
- Bidwells.
Modules
People, Leadership and Organisations (30 credits) This module aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of how behavioural and organisational issues influence project performance. It includes an overview of management approaches, an exploration of the issues around understanding self and understanding others, team theory and leadership, communication, conflict theory and resolution, conflict resolution strategies and learning from experience in project environments and also conflict and negotiation in the context of personal and cultural differences. To a large extent the module adopts a problem based learning (PBL) approach. Here, PBL is facilitated through problem solving exercises that are based on prominent case studies and game play exercises. Project Planning, Control and Risk (30 credits) This module prepares you to manage projects within the built environment through the use of advanced planning and control techniques. You will learn and apply a range of skills in project planning, scheduling, monitoring and control that includes cash flow and capital expenditure analysis, value management, risk and opportunity management and the use of software-based decision support tools as used in industry. Managing Technology for Sustainable Environments (30 credits) Technological innovations and how they are managed are key elements in the development of our built environment. This module introduces these as considerations that should be made at the inception and briefing stages of a project, not as afterthoughts. It also recognises that construction is not devoid of the human dimension - the contexts within which a construction project is situated, including influences of climate, culture, and surrounding and supporting infrastructures are also important. Thus you don’t study developments of technology in isolation, but as part of a continuously innovating industry. In this respect, managing Building Information Modelling (BIM), developments in off-site construction and Low Carbon Construction are covered as part of the module. Quantity Surveying Practice (30 credits) The financial management of project design and construction, whether for client or contractor, is an essential skill in the construction industry. This module helps you to develop this skill. It is designed to initially develop your understanding of the fundamental principles for building and civil engineering measurement. You will gain a good understanding of the standard methods of measurement such as NRM2 and CESMM4, develop quantity take-off skills and understand the key roles and responsibilities of a professional quantity surveyor with particular reference to the construction tendering process and use of BIM. Dissertation (50 credits) The dissertation follows on from Applied Research Methods and aims not only to generate new knowledge or insights but also to develop your capacity to undertake rigorous research, to plan and execute an extended project and to communicate complex ideas effectively in words and graphically. By conducting your own primary research, you work with a supervisor from within the department to produce an original piece of work of publishable quality.
Assessment method
Modes of study There are two modes of delivery for this course: full-time on campus part-time on campus part-time distance learning. There are two entry points - September and January. Please note, PGCert and PGDip qualifications are offered as exit awards only and are not accredited by RICS or CIOB. Applicants interested in these should apply for the MSc in the first instance. For full-time students lectures are held on two set days every week. For part-time on campus students, lectures are held on one set day every week. For distance learners, the virtual learning environment (VLE) is the primary mode of delivery. Students are supported by email, Zoom, Google Meet, on-line lectures and telephone, and are welcome to attend all lectures on campus. Distance learners are advised to spend two evenings per week and one whole day per weekend on their studies. There are also intensive on-campus study periods and a field trip, when students from all modes of study come together (attendance is optional).
How to apply
International applicants
If your first language is not English you will require a minimum academic IELTS score of 6.5 overall with 6.0 in all components. OR An equivalent English language qualification acceptable to the University. Please also see the University's standard English language requirements.
Entry requirements
The course is open to applicants who hold a 2.1 undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent) in any discipline. We will actively consider applications from candidates with lower degrees - who can evidence relevant experience, or a sustained managerial role in another profession. Industry professionals with relevant practice qualifications (e.g MRICS, MCIOB) - demonstrating ability to study at master's level, are also encouraged to apply. For Distance-Learning study, it is recommended that applicants have at least six months work experience in the built environment sector.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component
If English is not your first language then, please see here for our requirements and accepted alternative English language qualifications
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| EU | £17150 | Year 1 |
| England | £10300 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £10300 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £10300 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £10300 | Year 1 |
| International | £17150 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Fees quoted are for the first year only. If you are studying a course that lasts longer than one year, your fees will increase each year.
Provider information
Oxford Brookes University
Gipsy Lane
Headington
Oxford
OX3 0BP